3D printing

What is 3D printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process by which physical objects are created by depositing materials in layers based on a digital model. All 3D printing processes require software, hardware, and materials to work together.

Common methods of 3D printing

Advances are rapidly being made to make 3D printing technology reliable for mass manufacturing production-grade parts, and scientists and inventors are finding new ways to apply 3D printing technology every day.

Fused filament fabrication (FFF)
Also known as fused deposition modeling (FDM). This method of 3D printing heats and extrudes plastic materials. It's common in both consumer and professional 3D printers. Example 3D printers include MakerBot Replicator and Ultimaker 2.

Printing a safer earbud for music lovers
A pioneer of the first in-ear monitors for professional musicians, Asius Technologies used 3D printing to create an earbud that acts more like the human eardrum.